A SOCIAL worker has been nominated for a national award.

Peter Partridge, of Juniper Close, Halstead, has been shortlisted in the Social Worker of the Year Awards.

He was nominated by a colleague after his involvement in commissioning Helen Court, Witham – a housing scheme with 24-hour care and support for over-55s.

Mr Partridge helped appoint the onsite support provider and arranged for prospective residents to be nominated and accepted for the scheme.

The married father-of-two works for Essex County Council’s community assessment team and is a senior social worker in the Maldon area.

He has worked for the council since 1991, qualified as a social worker in 2005 and works with adults aged 18 and over.

Mr Partridge, 46, said: “I’m incredibly excited about attending the awards night and am going along with 14 colleagues and family members.

“I enjoy my work and have loved working on the Helen Court project. Helping people to settle into this new community has enabled them to continue to self-care and enjoy their independence.

“In particular those I have helped regain their independence by moving out of residential care into the scheme, has been a worthwhile and rewarding achievement.”

The Social Worker of the Year Awards were founded by Beverley Williams, an Essex County Council employee, in 2002 to give greater recognition for the achievements of qualified social workers.

They are sponsored by Sanctuary Personnel.

There are 16 finalists, chosen by an independent panel of senior social work practitioners. The winner will be announced on October 30.